I once worked with a congregation that was convinced they were in trouble. Attendance was down, giving was flat, and they felt anxious about the future. But when we looked closer, something beautiful emerged: their mission giving was strong, they’d just launched a new community partnership, and people were stepping up to help. They weren’t … Continue Reading
One of the first questions I ask a prospective client is, “How will this campaign help achieve the mission and vision of your church?” Capital campaigns aren’t just “fundraising projects” anymore. They’ve become moments for the church to pause and say, “Here’s what we believe God is calling us to do and here’s how we … Continue Reading
A few months ago, I was reviewing a church stewardship letter that sounded like it had been written by a committee or maybe by a robot trying to be polite. Every sentence was technically correct, every phrase was smooth. But it didn’t say anything. There was no soul. I wasn’t inspired. Just a polished string … Continue Reading
In the span of a week, I had two conversations and a podcast that gave me pause. One conversation was with my daughter, the other with a young church leader during a feasibility study. Then I listened to the recent edition of the First Day Podcast from the Lilly School of Philanthropy, featuring Una Osili … Continue Reading
The right guidance can unlock generosity, clarity, and momentum. See how outside counsel supports faithful leadership.A few months ago, I tried fixing a plumbing issue in our bathroom. I watched a few videos, made a trip to the hardware store, and gave it a go. It worked. Until it didn’t. By the end of the … Continue Reading
It’s almost summer, that season when church people take a vacation, and so does their giving. But it doesn’t have to. With a little planning and a handful of practical ideas, your church can keep generosity steady and ministry strong all summer long. Whether folks are traveling, unplugging, or just shifting their routines, these ten … Continue Reading
A few years ago, I helped organize a fundraising dinner for Habitat for Humanity. It was nothing fancy, just a simple meal served in a church fellowship hall, the kind of gathering many churches hold regularly. The first year, we charged a set price per plate. People came, ate, enjoyed themselves, and we raised a … Continue Reading
A Guide for Pastors, Elders, and other Christians Biblical wisdom on finance and faith for a fulfilling life Imagine, if you will, navigating your finances as if trekking through a vast, untamed wilderness—rich with potential yet fraught with obstacles. Picture in your hands an ancient, trusted guidebook, ready to lead you through this expanse. … Continue Reading
Rescuing the Annual Pledge Campaign from the Shackles of Thematic Tyranny! Hi friends, thanks for sticking around. I hope our emails are inspiring and helpful for your congregation and setting. As always, you can easily UNSUBSCRIBE. But if you’re still interested… Let me offer some thoughts. From Themes to Vision: The Path of True … Continue Reading
*|MC:SUBJECT|* *|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|* Building Lives, Building Dreams Unleashing the Power of Fundraising for a Flourishing Church Community! Capital campaigns are vital for church growth, yet they often remain puzzling for many faith-based communities. Today I’ll explain what they are and why they are crucial in fueling growth, expanding ministries, and fostering community connections. What is … Continue Reading